Howard Richman is an exceptional pianist and piano teacher, and I enthusiastically recommend him to both beginners and more advanced pianists, including those interested in classical music or virtually any other musical genre. Howard is also specialized in improvising and composing, and he certainly could help you in these areas. I personally have experienced his excellence when I began with him as a beginning student, but I also appreciated his pedagogical sophistication partially because I had performed professionally as a French horn player for many years. I also have appreciated his pedagogical expertise, given that I am a clinical psychologist and neuroscientist, who has some understanding of learning and brain functioning. Howard's excellence stems from (a) his own pedigree of teachers, dating back literally to Beethoven; (b) his hard work in his own piano studies, and (c) over 25 years of developing a very detailed method for learning the piano. Every decent piano teacher teaches technique, musicality, etc., but Howard has developed a very detailed, step-by-step method focusing on (a) practicing correctly and efficiently, in contrast to practicing many hours per day, (b) learning to execute fast passages and without suffering from repetitive-use injuries, (c) sight-reading; and (d) setting goals that are short-term, medium-term, and long-term. The last one is psychologically very important in that it allows one to aspire to "lofty" longer-term goals while still learning simpler ones that can be realized much sooner. With Howard's powerful technical suggestions, one can actually learn almost any piece of music by practicing very small segments just a few minutes per day and then over-lapping them properly. This keeps one's dreams alive and actually makes them realizable. Finally, Howard Richman is a very positive and nurturing individual who really loves what he does and who profoundly understands the joy and healing power of music. If you choose to study with him, you may find yourself feeling awe at your own ability to make music that you may have once thought was impossible. Harold Harold Burke, Ph.D. read more

I'm 81 years old. I dabbled in singing over the years and folks told me I had a good instrument. But I hardly ever used it except for some occasional singing in the shower and car. Fortunately, my voice is still strong for my age. When I turned 80 last year, I decided I was going to live up to the last line of my memoir: "I refuse to kick the bucket until it's empty". During a conversation, someone raved about Cherie Valaray and how she had transformed her voice into a musical instrument. I took the leap. By the third lesson, miraculously, with her technique, I discovered my "voice". It was that comfortable openness without having to tighten the cords and strain to hit a higher note. I learned how to breathe and trust. I was amazed... How could she get this out of this old body? It was like a new world to me. I was encouraged, so I dutifully practiced her exercises and gradually became acquainted with my newly discovered instrument. Cherie teaches with firmness, patience and more importantly, clarity. I found her method irresistible and solely because of her I now have the courage to assume responsibility for the modest gift I was given. Last week, after only six lessons, I was among the finalists on a Princess cruise in a theater of about 900 people. The ship had contracted with "The Voice" program and the director was required to follow their format. By the time I was halfway through an inadvertently shortened version of "My Way", All Judges' Chairs turned in response to my singing and the audience cheered, especially when I hit the high notes with my new confidence. Having been inspired by this remarkably gifted vocal coach and amazing opera singer, I now enjoy a renewed and rebooted life in my 80s and have already recorded a song to be played on YouTube in the near future. There's now a bounce to my outlook and a renewed confidence in what I have been preaching for years: "You're never too old, never give up and it's never too late." read more

Learning piano as an adult at the Richman School of Music has been an absolutely transformative experience. Howard Richman's approach to teaching piano is truly unique--he incorporates principles of learning psychology into each lesson, making what could be a challenging subject feel manageable and even intuitive. His focus on the learning process means each lesson feels tailored to how my brain absorbs information best, and I've noticed remarkable improvements in my neural pathways and overall cognitive function. Honestly I wish every subject at school was taught in the way Howard teaches piano. What makes Howard's teaching style even more exceptional is the depth of his knowledge and lineage; tracing back to Beethoven (!! for real!!!), he brings centuries of 'piano pedagogy' right into the room. He also shares insights into the German and Russian schools of piano, making me appreciate the nuances and cultural influences within each approach. And as if learning piano wasn't rewarding enough, Howard is also guiding me through the process of composing my own music. His encouragement and expertise have given me the confidence to explore songwriting and composition, something I never thought I'd be able to do. For anyone interested in piano, whether a beginner or revisiting it as an adult, Howard Richman's approach is invaluable--this is more than just learning an instrument; it's expanding your mind and tapping into a rich musical tradition. read more

Howard Richman is the most innovative piano teacher I have ever met ... it's never too late to learn to love and enjoy music. I had shelved away childhood classical piano lessons and wanted to re-discover the piano again while juggling a full-time career and family. We had a brief introduction meeting and he personalized my study program to areas I wanted to develop: pop-jazz, chord reading, and public performance. Some of the unforgettable teaching techniques he incorporates are "sight reading" by touch, creative composing workshops with other musicians, "muscle memory" practice sessions, and opportunities to perform outside of your comfort zone to become a better pianist. Never in a million years would I have thought that I would play recreationally at a wedding or club and he helped make that happen. He listens, is really attentive to your development, and has high ethics- a true professional. read more

I had piano lessons as a child and a one year refresher as a middle aged adult but with two kids and a full time job, practice time was limited. Time passed and I moved to retirement and wanted to get back to my piano. I found Howard, learned that he would be happy to work with someone like me. Fortunately, I was able to spend a year learning his techniques and methods and my skill level improved substantially. Howard will work with on any genre you wish to play. Despite my resistance, he encouraged me to play chords which was a totally new experience and I've found this approach rewarding. If you want the best in the business, go to this kind, supportive but serious musician and you WILL learn to play the piano read more

Howard is an outstanding piano teacher in every way. I have been a professional pianist for 30 years, but when it came time for teaching my daughter, I knew that working with someone else would be best for all of us. Howard's approach is unique, and powerful. I am floored by how quickly my daughter is learning, both technique and musicality. But perhaps more importantly, when your child tells you they are "bursting with joy" because they have a piano lesson, or when you have to tell them they really need to stop practicing and finally go to bed, you know that you have found a world class teacher. I have complete confidence that Howard's methods translate equally well to older children and adults. read more

Howard was recommended to me by a professional composer, so I expected that he'd be legit. He surpassed my expectations. I love working with Howard; his attention to detail is second to none. He truly understands how to communicate and how to teach. I was a complete beginner when I began working with him and think that my skills have improved rapidly due to all of the original teaching systems and methods that Howard has developed over the years. His instruction is purposeful and he explains how each exercise will help increase my abilities. I cannot imagine there is a better piano instructor in all of Southern CA. read more

We started our son with Howard at an early age and studied with him for years until we moved away. He is an exceedingly amazing teacher and person. Exactly what you need in a teacher. He quickly had my son playing all sorts of different genres at the same time and he fell in love with piano because he had such an enthusiastic teacher. Howard is as good as it gets if not better. My son can now play anything by ear and is addicted to piano and find great happiness and comfort in playing the piano whenever he can. I credit Howard for giving him that gift in life. read more

Richman Music School has been an incredible find. Howard Richman's approach to teaching piano is unparalleled. I was so nervous as an older gentleman starting from scratch but immediately was put at ease. He went out of his way to tailor my instruction to where I was at, my life situation, and my ability to grasp the material. I'll can really see myself becoming a good piano player over time. Thank you is such a small phrase when it comes to what he's brought to this journey. Thank you Howard! You're incredible! read more

Howard has been my music teacher for nearly three years. When I started, I didn't know the difference between an Ab and a D#. I'm now able to to play classical music, blues, rock and roll, and show tunes , read sheet music and "play by ear". With Howard's insight, I was able to achieve this despite significant visual and mechanical limitations. Without Howard's knowledge, patience, and flexibility, I would not have been able to experience the the almost "spiritual" sensation of creating music! Thx Howard! read more

Honestly, Howard is the best piano teacher I've ever encountered. He is a master craftsman as a teacher as well as brilliant pianist and composer in his own right. From beginners to the most advanced students... he is like a piano doctor. He knows just what each person needs. As a songwriter, he took me to the next level and beyond. I went from being a semi proficient piano player to a pro. So grateful to him. He is truly one of the best kept secrets in Los Angeles. read more

I've known howard richman for over 15 years. He not only taught me music theory and piano, but also taught my daughter the same when she became a young adult. He is patient, a really solid teacher and just knows what is needed for each individual student. I think that's what makes him special in his approach and philosophy of teaching. I was lucky to have been guided by howard in these studies. It sure did help me in the later years of my music career. read more

Howard is the most inspirational person I know, Kind, Understanding has a great personalty. I have had Piano sessions with Howard for about 5 years and he has supported me all the way I may not practice as much as I should but he allows for the individuals situations and goes with their needs, and where the Piano is concerned he know everything. Brilliant Pianist, composer and I'm honored to have him as my tutor. Highly recommended!! read more

Howard is very knowledgeable, professional and a great piano teacher. I'm glad that I found him to teach me and enhance my skills. He's very patient and could point out any defects I made and work with me to address those problems. While building my foundation, we also start with several hard songs to develop my potential and fasten the pace. It would be a right decision to choose him as a piano tutor. read more

An instructor is only as good as s/he is able to connect to the student; Howard has proven to be the Master of this and his craft. Howard is utterly amazing...aside from his unending patience with my son, he has an ability to communicate with him in a way that works SO well, we have continued our piano lessons with him via Skype, even though we have relocated to "Music City" (aka Nashville). read more

I really like working with Howard Richmond. He is a very kind and professional teacher who knows his stuff!! He makes learning fun and hard things become easier with his system of learning about the piano. He is an awesome teacher!! He has much experience and is positive and raised my confidence!! He is highly recommended!! read more